Don't Let the Flu Get You!

Picture provided by: MSNBC

Flu season is well upon us and considering the groundhog’s prediction of a longer winter, the flu season may stick around even longer. Yuck! The American Red Cross is concerned with everyone’s well-being and the East Georgia Chapter teaches ten different classes on health and safety. Although these classes are not necessarily geared towards flu prevention, here’s some information we should all be aware of during flu season.

Influenza, also known as the flu, is most common in the winter, but also occurs during fall and spring seasons. The flu is a highly contagious virus that can spread simply by talking to a person infected with the virus. While many have heard of the swine flu or bird flu, the most common type of flu is the seasonal flu, which affects 5-20% of Americans every year.
The following people are more likely to get the flu:

• People 50 years are older
• People who have chronic medical conditions
• Women who are pregnant
• Children between the ages of 6 months and 2 years old
• Children’s symptoms will often last longer since their immune systems are still developing.
• Elderly living in a long term care facility

Watch out for these symptoms to detect the virus as soon as possible!  

Picture provided by: Evidence Based Living

• Severe body aches
• High fever
• Headaches
• Extreme tiredness
• Sore Throat
• Cough
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Avoid the Flu By Following These Simple Steps

• Take your vitamins!
• Practice good health habits. Eat a balanced diet, drink lots of fluids, exercise, manage stress and get a good’s nice rest.
• Keep your hands to yourself!
• Try not to spread germs. Always wash your hands with soap and water and use a tissue to cover your nose or mouth when you cough or sneeze.
• Stay home and watch movies!
• Try to avoid contact with others when you are sick. A distance of 3 feet is recommended.
• Get the Flu Shot! 




Picture provided by: Around Town Kids

• This is one of the most effective ways to fight the flu, reducing the risk up to 80%. People should get the shot every year. It is recommended you get the shot between September and mid-November, but your local CVS®, Kroger®, and RiteAid® are currently offering the vaccination. Do not worry if you do not have insurance. At CVS®, if you do not have insurance, you receive a $5 gift card!  

If you think you or someone you know might be getting sick, you should let a doctor diagnose the symptoms. Treat the flu as early as possible in order to avoid further complications. For more information, visit The American Red Cross’ web site at   to make sure you are Red Cross Ready to prevent or fight the flu!

For even more information, visit: flu.gov

- Mary Elaine Gambill

March is Red Cross Month

"For over a century, the American Red Cross has harnessed the generosity of the American people, mobilizing us to offer assistance in the wake of disaster. Whether aiding towns fighting rising floodwaters or nations struggling with starvation and disease, the American Red Cross and its international partners have served during crises across the United States and around the world. During American Red Cross Month, we celebrate our Nation's humanitarian spirit, and we recommit to providing relief and hope in times of crisis."

-- President Barack Obama, 2011 Proclamation

March is almost here which means it is almost time to celebrate the official Red Cross Month! Just a few days remain before the start of the month, making now the perfect time to recognize and celebrate the work and progress of the American Red Cross across East Georgia and across the nation. It is a time to remember where we started and look ahead to where we are going.    

                                      

(Images provided by the American Red Cross national website)  

The American Red Cross was established by Clara Barton in 1881 and received its congressional charter in 1900. The mission from the moment it was established was clear - to provide relief aid after disasters and provide communication services to families with loved ones in the military. In 1943, amidst the turmoil of World War II, the first Red Cross Month was officially proclaimed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and March has continued to be acknowledged as so to this day.

(Images provided by the American Red Cross East Georgia website)

Over 100 years after its inception, the American Red Cross aids in almost 70,000 disasters each year. Across the nation and internationally, the Red Cross lends a helping hand with disaster relief by providing shelter, food, basic necessities and emotional support. In addition to disaster relief, the American Red Cross has helped the Armed Forces stay connected with their families and accounts for more than 40 percent of America’s blood supply. With all of these services, the Red Cross remains dedicated to educating communities about preparedness through health and safety training.

Join in celebrating the achievements of the American Red Cross! Follow us on Twitter   and like us on Facebook for updates about our events throughout the month.


- Jessica Wu